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David Eaton Obituary
He was born in Springfield, Mass., on Feb. 16, 1924. He served in the Armed Services in Europe during World War II and later graduated from Denison University in Ohio on the GI Bill. He was ordained a Congregational minister after completing his studies at Union Theological Seminary in New York City, where he studied under Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Paul Tillich. Later he received his Doctorate of Divinity from Andover-Newton Theology Seminary in Boston.
He served for 25 years as a Congregational parish minister. In 1973, David Eaton became the first chaplain at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital in New London, where he ministered for 13 years. During that time he formed the New England College of Chaplains and was the founding member of the Connecticut Association for Jungian Psychology and was a Diplomate of the American Association of Pastoral Counselors. Eaton later went into private counseling where he encouraged people to find their own path and passion. A healing, transforming encounter was always David Eaton's goal.
David Eaton is survived by his loving wife, Josie; a brother, Reverend William S. Eaton (Mary); two sons, Kenneth Eaton (Patricia) and Roger Eaton (Donna); a daughter, Catherine Fears (Greg); three stepsons, Bruce Becker, Stephen Becker (Therese), and Robert Becker (Debora); several grandchildren; and a great-grandchild.
He was predeceased by his stepdaughter, Lynn.
The family will greet relatives and friends from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 23, at the Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl St., Mystic. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 24, at Christ Episcopal Church, 7 Elm St., Westerly. Burial will follow in Stonington Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the David Eaton Memorial Fund at Christ Church, 7 Elm St., Westerly, RI 02891.
To share a message of condolence or remembrance with his family, please visit www.dinotofuneral.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Eaton
Demetrious Lamanis
October 24, 2013
Dear Josie, though we have never meet,
I have heard so much about you from your son Steve in whom I work with. Besides I did not know David except through The Holy Ghost being a fellow servant of The Lord Jesus.
Truly to all the family, my heart felt prayers & thought are with you. I would like to add a prayer.
Lord Jesus, help us to remain faithful to You. Strengthen and grow our faith as we search Your living word and apply Your truths to our hearts. As we go through trials and fires of this most sadden time as loved ones depart from our eyes but not from our hearts, help fix our eyes on You. When the storms of this life attempt to shipwreck our faith may they instead prove our faith to be more than conquers. Because You Lord Jesus are our Rock & foundation. You are the Anchor that keeps us grounded in Your eternal truths to The Glory of God our Father!! Be with the little ones (old & young) and protect their minds & hearts and comfort them in their darkest times where no eye can see but Yours.
In Jesus' lovely Name I pray. Amen.
Trust in His Love. I know David did.
October 23, 2013
Dave was always there to shelter us in the midst of the storms of life. He could bless our tears and steady our spirits. He pointed us to the Light beyond any present darkness. And he was a comfort, confidant,and compassionate friend, colleague, and neighbor. A great man. My prayers for comfort to you, Teej and your family. And may you know God's abiding Presence. love, peace and joy Lynne
October 22, 2013
Teej,we are so sorry for your loss. David was a special man and we will always remember the wonderful times we had together. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Neil and Marianne Baker
Ponte Vedra,FL
Jo
October 22, 2013
Dave, you always had a warm smile and hug at our family gatherings. So considerate, caring, kind, warm, and brilliant! God Bless, and rest in peace.
steven spellman
October 22, 2013
Here is one thing I learned from David Eaton: that everyone needs to ask how he or she can make a container to hold the splendor of God within life. It is up to each of us to create this form.
David accomplished this better than just about anyone I know.
My love to Teege.
October 22, 2013
David was a remarkable listener, quiet spokesperson, and a trusted confidantRIP
The Rev Cn Mark K J Robinson
Tom Greaney
October 22, 2013
David was an immense influence and presence in my life. I'm deeply saddened by his passing but profoundly grateful to have enjoyed a 20-year period of blessed and growth-inducing interaction with this giant of a man. Smart, intuitive and very insightful, David challenged my beliefs, helped me overcome obstacles and filled me with hope for the now and future. Teej, I send you my condolences, love and appreciation for being a dear and loving presence. In this time of sorrow I celebrate the anniversary of your birth today and look forward to seeing you tomorrow and Thursday.
Jean Peterson
October 22, 2013
David was a deep, warm, fully authentic person. I so value having known him.
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